Tinker

Son of Sophie and Brego 2004


To: flyingw@bright.net 10:09 PM
Subject: Picture of Rob Krause and “Tinker”

Hi! I’m Judy’s daughter, Anne. She asked me to send a picture that I had of my dad with the mastiff they purchased from you, Tinker. Here is one of my dad holding Tinker when he was still just a pup~ He has been such a wonderful part of our family! I can’t tell you what a blessing he is!
Thank you!

Anne


Sent: Thursday, January 15, 2009
Subject: Tinker

Dear Fredericka

The photos of Rob and Tinker are stowed away, in storage. I am asking my kids if they have any of them, so that we can send some to you.

I apologize for not sending some sooner, it was just that I was too emotional. If they come up with some, I will get them to you one way or another.

Just a comment or two about Rob and Tinker: when it became clear that the chemo and radiation would not be helping Rob, Tinker seemed to understand. One evening, after a visit to the oncologist, Rob was dozing in his big recliner, and Tinker came and sat in front of him, and just gazed at him for what seemed like an hour. Tinker never got in the way, but was always beside Rob, after that, even when the monsignor came to visit with the sacrament of the sick and Last Rites, the day he passed away.

The hospice nurses loved Tinker, too. He was always quiet, never let himself get excited around them. I think he sensed that they were there to help. Tinker is normally a little excited when we have company, but during that time it was as though he was restraining himself. He is such an amazing dog.

I just cannot thank you enough for letting Tinker into our lives. I never dreamed that a mastiff could be so easy to live with, or such a great friend.

Regards until next time,

Judy


Sent: Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Subject: Tinker

Hi, Fredericka–January 2009

Just a note to apologize for not sending photos any sooner. I wanted to let you know how much all of us love Tinker, our American Mastiff. Before Rob (my husband) died, Rob said many times that Tinker was the best birthday present he ever could have received. I know that they had an inexpressible bond, and that Tinker was a great comfort to Rob in Rob’s final illness.

Tinker was such a beautiful puppy, and so nice. He was easy to train, and very even tempered even when he was young. The vets have always liked him He’s huge, but probably not as large as some of your dogs. He weighs 193 at his last visit, and is about 33-34 inches high at his shoulder. He has never been aggressive, but he does give an impression of being alert and watchful, at certain times.

Tinker is a wonderful friend to me, and I want to let you know that even though he is a nice quiet dog, I am certain that he is always standing guard. He is a great favorite with the grandkids, they love to bring the ferrets over to play with Tinker. My little minpin Bebe has always loved Tinker, as well.

Tinker is in great health, and has never had any health issues. He’s almost 5 years old, I think, and still athletic, loves to chase squirrels in the yard. Thank heaven he has never caught one, he would not know what to do with it! He loves his squeaky toys and giant bones, plays a great game of fetch, heels like a perfect gentleman, and fits in wherever I take him.

Thanks, Fredericka, for developing this wonderful breed. Tinker is a grand friend, and has been through everything with me.

Love,

Judy